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Dropcam Acquired by Nest (Google) – Privacy advocates are concerned

Nest Labs which makes the popular learning thermostats was acquired by Google for $3.2 billion only back in January this year.
Now they have bought Dropcam for $555 million in cash, an announcement that is going to concern a lot of people when it comes to privacy.

Dropcam sells WiFi enables cameras that are easy to use and affordable ($149 and $199 for the regular and Pro version). With the Dropcam app you can also remotely check the camera and for a monthly fee the company will record and store your footage as well.

The people involved in the deal were quick to try and ease the concerns on privacy, here is what they had to say:

“Nest and Dropcam are kindred spirits. Both were born out of frustration with outdated, complicated products that do the opposite of making life better. After numerous conversations with Nest Founders Tony and Matt, it was clear that we shared a similar vision.” – Dropcam founder Greg Duffy

“Like Nest customer data, Dropcam will come under Nest’s privacy policy, which explains that data won’t be shared with anyone (including Google) without a customer’s permission. Nest has a paid-for business model and ads are not part of our strategy. In acquiring Dropcam, we’ll apply that same policy to Dropcam too.” – Nest founder Matt Rogers

These statements will not have much impact with privacy advocates who already call them empty promises.

Google could now not only know your location at all times, know your interests, what digital content you are consuming etc but also have a video feed of your home.